Page 264 - Lost Book Remedies

The Lost Book of Herbal Remedies

White Sage, avoided during pregnancy, then consumed when the
time for delivery is at hand.
Salvia apiana Coughs and Colds: White Sage Infusion made

from the leaves of the plant is good for treating cold
White sage, also known as sacred sage or bee sage, is and coughs. It has antibacterial qualities that speed
an evergreen perennial shrub found in the southwest- healing. Use the leaves in a steam bath to release mu-
ern United States. It is in the Lamiaceae (Mint) Fam- cus and open up congested airways.
ily.

Identification: This shrub grows to between 4 and
5 feet tall and about 4 feet (1.2 meters) wide. The whit-
ish leaves release oils and resins when rubbed, giving
them a strong scent. White to pale lavender flowers ap-
pear in the spring and bloom through the summer.
They grow on many 3 to 4-foot flower stalks that are
sometimes pinkish in color. The flower petals pucker
back and the stamens dangle on the sides.
Edible Use: The pounded seeds of white sage are
used to supplement flour. The leaves and stems are
also edible.
Medicinal Use: White Sage Infusion is good for
coughs and colds. The seeds are used medicinally to Cleaning the Body and Home: White sage
cleanse the eyes. leaves are used as a form of hair shampoo and for
cleansing. The leaves are crushed in water and then
Childbirth: The root tea of white sage is said to give rubbed into the hair and body. To clean a house or
strength and healing during childbirth. The herb is space of negative energy, purify the area by burning a
white sage leaf smudge in the space.

White Willow, Salix alba

White willow is a deciduous tree that grows to 90 feet
(27 meters) tall. It grows in moist areas like riverbanks
and low-lying areas. It is native to Europe and Asia.
Most willows can be used interchangeably for medi-
cine. It is in the Salicaceae (Willow) Family.

Identification: The branches are pliable and lean
downward, and the trunk often leans as well. The plia-
ble and leaning branches give this tree a graceful ap-
pearance with flashes of green and white. Willow is of-
ten used for basketry. The leaves are lance-shaped and
pale green. They are covered in white hairs on the top
and bottom of the leaf. The undersides of the leaves are
white, giving the tree its name. Leaves are 2 to 4 inches
(5 cm to 10 cm) long and approximately 1/2 inch (1.25
cm) wide.
Flowers grow on catkins in the early spring, producing
male and female catkins on separate trees. Male cat- White Willow, MPF, CC by SA 3.0
kins are 1 ½ to 2 inches (3.75 cm to 5 cm) long and

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